Q I recently participated in a discussion relating to differing eyesight
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regulations existing at the present time in various countries round the world.
Surely the minimum in the UK (to be able to read a car number plate at 25yd) is reasonable and one would expect driving tests in other countries to include a similar eyesight test.
Could you tell me if my assumptions are valid, and if not which are the countries that have eyesight requirements of a lower standard than the one used in England?
If such countries do exist could an international driving licence obtained in one of those countries be used in the UK?
AThere are different standards in some
countries and where these standards are below the British standard it is due primarily to the fact that smaller-sized number plates are allowed.
Switzerland and France both require drivers to be able to read a number plate at 20 metres (about 67ft1.
An international driving licence obtained in a country where lower eyesight standards apply can be used in this country but only for a limited period. These licences are only issued for limited periods and once they expire the driver, if he remains in the country, must apply for a British driving licence in which case he would then have to meet the British eyesight requirement.